Nuclear Physicist

Nuclear physicists are interested in studying the atom - specifically how it can be used in the production of nuclear energy. They do this by looking at how individual protons, electrons and neutrons behave and interact with each other and apply this knowledge to various different applications that utilise nuclear energy such as power, medicine, defence and aerospace innovation.

Typically, nuclear physicists work in research laboratories designing and conducting experiments but they may also spend some of their time working with industrial equipment and instrumentation. They often work as part of multi-disciplinary teams containing engineers or medical professionals and are often required to perform advanced mathematical and statistical analysis. It is unusual to find work in this field without completing post-graduate qualifications and a substantial body of research, though entry level positions are available as laboratory or research assistants.